This thatched former village Post Office is now available to rent in Hampshire

After a long winter, the arrival of spring is theperfect time to book a much-needed staycation. Need some inspiration?This gingerbread house with a charming thatched roof is now available to rent in Hampshire — and we couldn't think of anywhere better to hunker down.

Set on the fringes of the New Forest, the Sorting Office is a former village Post Office that was built in the mid-18th century and once serviced the residents of Whitsbury from the 1930s before retiring from public duty. Serenely hidden away, it looks like it has been plucked straight from the pages of Hansel and Gretel.

Enter through the blue stable door and you'll find a cosy beamed lounge, a traditional shaker-style kitchen with soft grey cabinets, an inglenook fireplace for when the weather turns grim, and a light-drenched garden room with floor-to-ceiling windows. There's also everything you need to live comfortably for a week, including a luxury hamper of delicious local treats, beautiful bedlinen, fresh towels, recipe books, an LG Smart TV with Netflix, and a Bose Bluetooth speaker.

With space for just two guests, there are two bedrooms on the first floor of the cottage, one family bathroom with a bath and separate shower, and an additional cloakroom on the ground floor. It's small but perfectly formed.

The glorious garden is worth making a fuss about. Bordered by thick greenery, it offers breathtaking countryside views, pretty plants, and a small narrow footpath that leads to the 13th century to St Leonard's church where walkers can join an ancient pilgrimage path across rolling hills. Make sure you don't forget your hiking boots.

'The Sorting Office is a rural self-catering retreat which ticks all the boxes for an escape from the city,' say Unique Homestays. 'It waltzes to a slower tempo, confident in its stature, wise in its age and with beauty flowing throughout.'

Tempted to book your stay? The Sorting Office is now available to book via Unique Homestays. Prices start from £1,495 per week.

Take a peek around the charming cottage...

Follow House Beautiful on Instagram.

The Garden Edit